Maternal dietary diversity and dietary quality scores in relation to adverse birth outcomes in Tanzanian women.

Background: Preterm birth (PTB), small for gestational age (SGA), and low birth weight (LBW) are risk factors for morbidity and mortality among infants. High-quality maternal diets during pregnancy may protect against these adverse birth outcomes.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to prospectively examine the association of maternal dietary diversity and quality during pregnancy with birth outcomes among women in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Male partner approval on the use of modern contraceptive methods: factors determining usage among couples in Kibaha district, Tanzania.

Background: Men in developing countries play an important role in the adoption of family planning (FP), either as actual users or supporters of their partners. Notwithstanding the universal knowledge on the contraceptive methods, their approval and use have been low among men in Tanzania. This study determined the magnitude and factors that influence men to use or approve the use of modern contraceptive methods with their spouses.

The Effect of Maternal Multiple Micronutrient Supplementation on Female Early Infant Mortality Is Fully Mediated by Increased Gestation Duration and Intrauterine Growth.

Background: Maternal micronutrient supplementation in pregnancy (MMS) has been shown to improve birth weight among infants in low- and middle-income countries. Recent evidence suggests that the survival benefits of MMS are greater for female infants compared to male infants, but the mechanisms leading to differential effects remain unclear.

Objective: The objective of this study was to examine the potential mechanisms through which MMS acts on infant mortality among Tanzanian infants.

Modifiers of the effect of maternal multiple micronutrient supplementation on stillbirth, birth outcomes, and infant mortality: a meta-analysis of individual patient data from 17 randomised trials in low-income and middle-income countries.

Background: Micronutrient deficiencies are common among women in low-income and middle-income countries. Data from randomised trials suggest that maternal multiple micronutrient supplementation decreases the risk of low birthweight and potentially improves other infant health outcomes. However, heterogeneity across studies suggests influence from effect modifiers.